Mamaroneck’s David O. Russell may want to practice his Oscar speech: His con artist comedy, “American Hustle,” led the pack when the Academy Award nominations were announced Jan. 16, tied with the Sandra Bullock-led astronaut drama, “Gravity.”
Each film received 10 nods each, but only “Hustle” was recognized in every major field, including Best Picture and all four acting categories (for leads Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence). Russell, a Mamaroneck High School graduate, was also nominated for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay (along with co-writer Eric Warren Singer).
The Oscar telecast, hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, will air March 2 on ABC.
For more, see my story on Michael Wilkinson’s “American Hustle” creations– Wilkinson was also nominated for Best Costume Design – in February WAG. – Heather Salerno
